The Shorrocks Apartment

Just outside the village of Betws-y-Coed, in the forested Conwy Valley, a pair of wrought iron gates announce the entrance to Coed-y-Celyn Hall – a grand house in manicured riverside gardens that is home to the Shorrocks Apartment, an elegant self-catering holiday let in a building that was once home to landscape artist Herbert Shorrocks. The history of the place adorns the walls both in Victorian features and in Shorrocks’ own paintings, which depict the Snowdonian scenery you’ll find outside the front door. It’s a fascinating place to stay in a location that’s great for exploring the National Park.

Situated on the ground floor, one of the undoubted highlights of The Shorrocks Apartment is that it opens directly onto the house's well-tended gardens. Manicured lawns, access to a riverside meadow and valley views make it a lovely place to relax, play croquet or even paint if you’re feeling inspired by the location. Inside, high ceilings, antique furniture and Victorian features are carefully balanced with modern amenities. There’s a contemporary kitchenette, a Smart TV and good WiFi. What’s refreshing about this place, though, is that it opens up the experience of a country house to a single family, couple or small group. The apartment sleeps five in a single, spacious bedroom with a small en-suite. Beds can be configured as a super-king and three singles or as five separate beds.

The apartment is hosted by Fiona, Herbert Shorrocks’ granddaughter, who grew up at Coed-y-Celyn. With a lifetime’s knowledge of the area, she has put together her tips for exploring with the same care that’s been used to renovate the apartment. Her folder details recommend lots of places to eat and things to do. Zip World and Surf Snowdonia may not have been options in her grandfather’s time, but the most popular adventures don’t change. It’s the trek up Snowdon that most people want to tackle – and it’s only a 20-minute drive from here.

The village of Betws-y-Coed has been touted as the gateway to Snowdonia since Victorian times, when the railway first arrived – about the same time as Coed-y-Celyn came along. As such, The Shorrocks Apartment feels like the perfect place to base yourself – just a 15-minute walk from the village, which now bustles with hotels, cafes and outdoor shops. It’s a tranquil spot with every convenience nearby, including a good restaurant, Ty Gwyn, a very short stroll away.